East Albury teenager Coby Fitzsimmons says a desire to improve on his starts was behind his breakout provincial century last weekend.
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The 17-year-old has been regraded as one of the rising talents of CAW for a number of years, but had a quiet debut season for the Crows, posting 326 runs at 20.
In 17 games, the right-hand opening batsman made 20 or more on six occasions with a top score of 62.
"I've been working on converting those 30s and 40s into bigger scores," he said.
It worked as Fitzsimmons posted an unbeaten 104 in the rain-affected match against Belvoir.
"I wasn't focused on myself getting to 100, I was more focused on getting the team to 200, trying to bust it and set up a good score," he said.
It's not easy as a teenager to keep an eye on the team score, as opposed to your own, so the Murray High School student's attitude is an indication of his maturity.
Fitzsimmons also scored a century at under 16 level last season, but says converting the starts is certainly the most difficult aspect of playing first grade at a young age.
"I suppose it's both (a mental and physical challenge), I've been working on both the mental and physical sides of the game," he said.
Naturally, the ton has worked wonders for his confidence.
"It obviously boosts it, I can believe in myself that I can do it," he said.
"I've just got to do it again I suppose, recreate it."
And the Crows' coaching staff, led by Dylan Weeding, have provided strong support for the youngster.
"They've been helping me knuckle down and helping me get that tough period," he offered.
East Albury's batting lacks the firepower of some of last season's other finalists, so while the club obviously won't put too much pressure on Fitzsimmons, there's no doubt a breakout year from him will go a long way to another finals campaign.
However, all clubs will certainly target the youngster as a key wicket, if they hadn't already, starting at home against Wodonga Raiders on Saturday.
The wet weather has affected all four rounds, but the prospect of a sunny day has lifted spirits.
"We did training with the Border Bullets on Monday night and everyone just wants the season to get back to what it should be," Wodonga captain Tom Johnson said.
Wodonga will face provincial newcomers Corowa for the first time with an exciting battle between former NSW Country batsman Bob Jackson (Wodonga) and hometown quick Jarryd Hatton.
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High profile Wodonga recruit Theo Valeri (Griffith) will also play his first match.
Elsewhere, Albury is home to New City, Lavington hosts St Patrick's, while North Albury will look to bounce back at home against Belvoir after being skittled with the ball.
